Picayune expands city limits

PICAYUNE, MS (WLOX) -

Picayune has expanded its city limits in all directions, adding a total of 5.3 square miles to its boundaries. Friday, the U.S. Justice Department approved the city's annexation plan, adding a thousand more residents and some prime development areas.

"Right off the bat, Al, it brings in 20 new businesses into the city limits. These businesses wanted to be annexed for numerous reasons," said Picayune Mayor Ed Pinero.

The move brings about 200 homes into the city and adds 800 new citizens, the bulk of which are located in the Westchester Subdivision.

Resident Robert Pritchett had a mixed reaction to the annexation news.

"It will mean more taxes, right? That's not good. But the police protection will be good."

His neighbor is happy to be a part of the city.

"It should be alright. It shouldn't be any different than before," Gail Chaisson said.

The city also took in land in the Nicholson community to the state line, property in Carriere around exit 10 on I-59, as well as property near the Municipal airport.

"All four corners of the north and south part of the annexation, as well as the west part of the annexation, are on interstate and highway frontage. So this is something that made it real attractive for the developers. It wasn't about bringing in a large number of residents and a tax base. We specifically focused on the commercialization districts," said Mayor Pinero.

Picayune City Manager Jim Luke echoed the mayor's words.

"We think it's going to be a very good thing for the future of Picayune."

The mayor will welcome the newest citizens to the city during a meet and greet Tuesday at one o'clock at city hall on Beech Street.

With annexation, Picayune's populations goes from about 10,000 residents to nearly 11,000. The official annexation date is October 10th.